Roberta Aguirre
CLEAR is a private, for-profit identity verification platform that offers expedited security checks at select airports and stadiums. It uses biometric technology to verify your identity through your eyes or fingerprints, rather than traditional IDs. CLEAR can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, which allows travellers to go through a shorter security line and less strict screening requirements. TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveller Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA). CLEAR and TSA PreCheck aim to improve the airport experience by reducing wait times and streamlining security checks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Faster identity check at the airport |
| Application process | Online application followed by a visit to an airport kiosk |
| Requirements | At least 18 years old, U.S. driver's license, U.S. passport, or U.S. state-issued ID |
| Cost | $199 for an annual membership |
| Availability | More than 55 airports, stadiums, and arenas across the U.S. |
| Benefits | Faster security checks, complimentary perks, and discounts |
| Drawbacks | Not available at all airports, potential security concerns |
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What You'll Learn
Clear vs TSA PreCheck
CLEAR+ and TSA PreCheck® are two different services that can be used separately or together to speed up the process of getting through airport security.
CLEAR+ is an opt-in service owned by a private company that provides travellers with a faster, easier airport security experience. Members get access to a dedicated lane where they verify their identity using biometric technology. CLEAR+ costs $199 per year and can be bundled with TSA PreCheck® for a lower price.
TSA PreCheck® is a U.S. government program that identifies travellers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved, travellers can pass through expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide without needing to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets. TSA PreCheck® costs $77.95 for five years and can be purchased separately or as part of a bundle with CLEAR+.
CLEAR+ and TSA PreCheck® are complementary services that can be used together to provide travellers with the quickest route through the airport. However, they are not available at every airport, so some frequent travellers opt to have memberships to both.
Some people prefer TSA PreCheck® because it is harder to get and therefore tends to have smaller numbers. Others prefer CLEAR+ because it allows them to skip the security line completely. Ultimately, the decision of which service to choose depends on individual preferences and travel needs.
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Clear's identity verification
CLEAR is an identity verification platform that expedites the airport security process. It is available at select domestic airports, stadiums, and arenas across the U.S. CLEAR uses biometric technology to verify your identity through eye or fingerprint scans, eliminating the need to show traditional IDs to a TSA agent. This allows users to skip the line for regular security screening and speeds up the identity verification process.
To enrol in CLEAR, you must be at least 18 years old and have a U.S. driver's license, U.S. passport, or U.S. state-issued ID. The enrolment process begins online and is completed at one of the CLEAR airport locations. CLEAR Plus membership costs $189 per year for individuals, while family memberships cost $199 per year plus $119 per additional person, allowing children under 18 to use the CLEAR lane for free when travelling with a family member.
CLEAR is often compared to TSA PreCheck, another program that expedites the airport security process. TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveller Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It is available to low-risk travellers who undergo a background check and meet certain citizenship or residency requirements. TSA PreCheck members can access expedited security lanes at over 200 domestic airports and more than 90 airlines, where they can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on while also leaving laptops and approved liquids in their carry-on luggage.
While both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck aim to speed up the airport security process, they have distinct differences. CLEAR focuses on faster identity verification using biometrics, allowing users to skip the line entirely. On the other hand, TSA PreCheck offers a faster physical check, with shorter security lines and less strict screening requirements.
Combining CLEAR and TSA PreCheck memberships can further enhance the airport experience, improving the odds of faster and smoother security checks. Some credit cards offer complimentary memberships or statement credits for these programs, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers seeking a more efficient and convenient airport experience.
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TSA PreCheck eligibility
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows eligible travellers to pass through security at most US airports more quickly and conveniently. Members of the program can access shorter lines and keep their belts, shoes, and lightweight jackets on during screenings. Large electronics like laptops and tablets can also remain in their cases or carry-on bags.
TSA PreCheck is open to US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain foreign citizens. Applicants must undergo a background check and meet eligibility requirements to qualify. The application costs $78 for five years and can be submitted online and completed at a Clear kiosk in a participating airport. Alternatively, applicants can schedule an in-person appointment to provide fingerprints for the background check.
US citizens and foreign citizens who meet specific residency requirements are eligible to apply. Some travel credit cards, such as Chase Sapphire Reserve, reimburse the application fee. Additionally, TSA PreCheck has partnered with Clear, allowing applicants to enrol at almost 50 Clear locations without an appointment.
Those eligible for TSA PreCheck include members of Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI, as well as members of the US Armed Forces, including the National Guard and reserves. Cadets and midshipmen of select US academies and government employees from select agencies are also eligible. Children 12 and under travelling with an eligible passenger can use the TSA PreCheck lanes.
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Clear's application process
CLEAR is an identity verification platform that offers expedited security checks at more than 70 airports and stadiums in the US. CLEAR uses biometrics, such as your eyes and fingerprints, to verify your identity, so you don't need to present a traditional ID.
CLEAR Application Process:
To sign up for CLEAR, you must be 18 years or older and have a valid and unamended form of photo identification, such as a US driver's license, a US passport, or a state-issued ID. The sign-up process can be started online and typically takes just a few minutes to complete.
- Sign up online: Begin by signing up for a complimentary CLEAR membership on their website. This step should only take about five minutes.
- Complete your enrollment at an airport: After signing up online, you will need to complete your enrollment at a CLEAR airport location. CLEAR is available at over 55 airports nationwide, including St. Louis (STL) and Washington, D.C.
- Provide identification: At the airport, a CLEAR Ambassador will validate your ID and take your biometrics, including a fingerprint, an eye scan, and a photo of your face, to create your profile.
- Verify your identity: Answer a few questions to verify your identity and provide payment information.
- Enjoy the benefits: Once your enrollment is complete, you can start using CLEAR lanes immediately. CLEAR offers faster and easier security screening, allowing you to skip long lines at the airport and other participating venues.
Additional Considerations:
- Free Trials and Promotions: CLEAR occasionally offers free trials and promotions, such as a two-month free trial when enrolling at the airport. Certain credit cards, such as American Express Platinum and Hilton Honors cards, also offer statement credits to cover the cost of CLEAR membership.
- Family Membership: CLEAR allows you to add adult family members for $119 per person per year. Children under 18 do not need to enroll and can join any CLEAR member in line for free.
- TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: CLEAR can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, which offers expedited security checks at over 200 US airports. Global Entry is another valuable service for international travellers, providing expedited entry upon return to the US. These additional services come at extra costs and require separate enrollment processes.
CLEAR aims to provide a smoother and faster experience for travellers, but it is important to note that some users have reported longer wait times during peak periods at certain airports. It is recommended to check the hours of operation and user reviews for the airports you frequent before signing up.
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Clear's availability
CLEAR is a private, for-profit identity verification platform that offers expedited security checks at select airports and stadiums across the U.S. CLEAR uses biometric technology, such as eye and fingerprint scans, to verify a user's identity, allowing them to bypass the regular security line.
CLEAR is available at over 55 airports and stadiums across the U.S., including major airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York. However, it is important to note that CLEAR is not available at all airports, and smaller cities and towns may not have CLEAR kiosks.
To enrol in CLEAR, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have a valid U.S. driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID. The enrolment process can be started online, but it must be completed at a CLEAR kiosk located at a participating airport. CLEAR Plus membership costs $189 per year for individuals, while family memberships cost $199 per year plus $119 per additional family member.
CLEAR has faced some criticism for allegedly compromising security, with some incidents of unauthorised people accessing secure areas. However, CLEAR has taken steps to address these issues, including firing employees and managers who failed to follow protocols.
In comparison, TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA PreCheck offers expedited security checks at over 200 domestic airports and more than 90 airlines. With TSA PreCheck, members can access shorter security lines and are subject to less strict screening requirements, such as not having to remove their shoes, belts, or light jackets. The application process for TSA PreCheck involves an online application, a brief interview, and a background check. The cost of TSA PreCheck is $78 for a five-year membership, with renewal fees ranging from $68.95 to $78.
Both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck aim to improve the airport experience by providing faster security checks. While CLEAR focuses on expedited identity verification, TSA PreCheck offers a faster physical check. Many frequent travellers find it beneficial to have memberships to both programs to increase the odds of a smoother airport experience.
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Frequently asked questions
CLEAR is an identity verification platform that allows you to skip long lines at the airport. Instead of showing your documents to a TSA agent, your identity is verified by eyes or fingerprints at a kiosk.
CLEAR uses your eyes and fingertips to verify your identity instead of a traditional ID. You can start the process of signing up for CLEAR online, but you must finish setup at an airport kiosk.
CLEAR Plus membership costs $189 per year. CLEAR is the most expensive option out of the three programs, with TSA PreCheck costing $78 for five years and Global Entry costing $100.
CLEAR kiosks are available at more than 55 airports and stadiums across the U.S. CLEAR is not available at smaller airports and towns.
CLEAR speeds up the first half of the airport security process by verifying your identity through biometric screening. After this, a CLEAR Ambassador escorts you directly to the next stage of the screening process.
